Six Flags Great America in Gurnee, Illinois, closed Friday as smoke from Canadian wildfires pushed Chicago’s air quality to hazardous levels. The park announced it plans to reopen Saturday if conditions improve.
Unhealthy air forces park shutdown
The amusement park and adjacent Hurricane Harbor Chicago cited guidance from weather and safety experts in their decision. A spokesperson stated the closure was due to current air quality conditions, adding, “We appreciate our guests’ understanding and patience.”
Chicago’s Air Quality Index reached the “hazardous” category Friday morning before improving to “unhealthy” later in the day. An alert remains in effect through Saturday night as smoke from northern Ontario wildfires drifts south.
Wildfire smoke impacts millions across US
Canada reported 859 active wildfires as of Thursday, with 113 classified as out of control. The smoke has affected large parts of the US, including the Great Lakes, Northeast, and Mid-Atlantic regions, exposing over 100 million people to unhealthy air.
New York City also faced “unhealthy” air quality Friday, ranking fourth globally for poor air conditions. Health officials advised residents, particularly those with respiratory issues, to stay indoors and avoid outdoor exertion.
Political response to cross-border smoke
Former President Donald Trump criticized Canada’s forest management on Truth Social, stating the country was failing to maintain its forests. He wrote, “The United States is being unnecessarily invaded by filthy, polluted, and unhealthy air,” and vowed to contact the Canadian prime minister.
